He will, of course, ask for an equivalent, either in money or in protection against some neighbouring rajah.

We have no money to spare at present, and certainly no troops.

Your commission therefore will be to acknowledge his communication, to assure him of our friendship, to ascertain the suitability of the island that he offers, and to tell him that, at present, being so fully occupied with wars here, we are scarcely in a position to extend our responsibility; but that, when matters are more settled, we shall be prepared to enter into a treaty with him, to open a trade with his dominions, to pay a fair sum for the possession of the island, if suitable, and to enter into a treaty of alliance with him.
"Of the value of such a settlement there can be no doubt, whatever; for we may take it that, before very long, some of the Chinese ports will be open to European traders." A week later, Harry embarked on a brig mounting eight guns, and usually employed in police work along the coast.

He was accompanied by a Dutch interpreter, a Malay trader, Abdool, and four troopers of the Governor General's bodyguard, in the handsome uniform worn by that corps.

The lieutenant in command of the brig received Harry, with the usual ceremony, as a Government commissioner.